Corsica's Airports and Ports Blocked Amid State and Local Tensions
Corsica is experiencing significant disruptions as a spontaneous social movement led by the Corsican workers' union (STC) has resulted in the blockade of all four airports and six ports on the island. This action, which began on Thursday afternoon, is a direct response to escalating tensions between the regional government and the French State regarding the management of these critical transport hubs.
The unrest was sparked by remarks from Alexandre Patrou, Secretary General for Corsican Affairs, who expressed concerns over the legal implications of a proposed system that would allow the Chamber of Commerce to continue managing Corsican ports and airports. Gilles Simeoni, the autonomist president of Corsica's Executive Council, labeled these remarks a "declaration of war," emphasizing that there would be no acceptance of international groups managing Corsica's transport infrastructure.
The STC union has reported that the blockade has led to complete halts in operations, with no flights taking off or landing, and no vessels departing or arriving at the ports. Travelers have been left stranded, with some passengers at Bastia airport reporting confusion over flight cancellations and delays. In response to the situation, the Haute-Corse prefecture has opened a gymnasium to accommodate stranded travelers.
Underlying these immediate tensions is a financial dispute, as Gilles Simeoni has demanded an additional 50 million euros from the French government to address inflation-related costs that have not been accounted for in state funding. He warned that failure to secure this funding could jeopardize public service contracts in the air and maritime sectors, threatening hundreds of jobs and potentially leading to further disruptions.
The situation in Corsica highlights the ongoing struggle between local governance and state control, as well as the economic pressures facing the region. As the conflict unfolds, the local government remains firm in its demands for autonomy over its transport management, while the State insists on regulatory compliance to mitigate legal risks.
